Safety Measures in Healthcare

Overview

Fire safety (RACE/PASS), oxygen safety, electrical safety, and chemical safety. Fire mnemonics and oxygen precautions tested on CNA and MA exams.

Resident care connections: Right to privacy for personal care, mail, phone conversations, medical information. Right to be free from restraints (physical and chemical) except for documented medical necessity.

Safety Considerations

Safe practice of safety measures in healthcare requires proper body mechanics and fall prevention:

• Wide base of support with feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly forward
• Raise bed to working height to avoid bending
• Bend at the knees and hips, not at the waist
• Pivot feet instead of twisting the spine

Exam Focus Areas

On the Cna Nnaap, Medical Assistant exam(s), questions about safety measures in healthcare typically test:

1. Resident rights and appropriate responses to violations
2. Body mechanics and safe transfer techniques
3. Proper procedure for activities of daily living (ADLs)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step-by-step procedure for ambulation assist (applicable to safety measures in healthcare):

1. Apply non-skid footwear
2. Use gait belt
3. Stand on weaker side
4. Walk at resident pace
5. If falling: ease to floor, protect head

Safety note: Lock wheelchair brakes before transfer. Gait belt goes around waist, not chest.